Epinephrine auto-injector: how to take it safely
EpiPen, Jext
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Emergency treatment of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), such as from food, stings or medicines.
How to take it
- Pull off the safety cap. Press the tip firmly against the outer middle of the thigh, through clothing if needed, until it clicks. Hold for 3 to 10 seconds, as the pen says.
- Lie down with legs raised. Call emergency services straight away.
- Rub the area after injecting.
When to take it
Use it as soon as signs of a severe allergic reaction start.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Waiting to see if it gets better. Use it straight away.
- Keeping it in a hot car or the fridge.
- Using an expired pen if you have no other. Replace pens before the expiry date.
- Standing up during a reaction.
Possible side effects
Pounding heart, shakiness, paleness, anxiety, headache.
Get help if
Call emergency services every time you use it, even if you feel better. If symptoms do not improve in 5 to 15 minutes, use a second pen if you have one.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.